Connect with us

Multi

Onimusha Way of the Sword Revealed with Hands-On Gameplay Showcase: A Unique Blend of Edo-Era Mystery and Intense Sword Combat

CAPCOM unveiled a behind-closed-doors gameplay demo of their upcoming sword-fighting action game, Onimusha Way of the Sword, tied to this year’s Summer Game Fest. Set for release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam, this marks the first new installment in the famed Onimusha series in nearly two decades.

The game transports players to an eerie, mist-shrouded Kyoto during the early Edo period, transformed by a deadly miasma into a place of dark fantasy and haunting secrets. Strange supernatural enemies called “Phantoms” plague the land alongside its residents, weaving a story thick with mystery and intrigue.

The demo stage is a painstakingly recreated version of the iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple, modeled after the real location with expert consultation. Players take on the role of a young Miyamoto Musashi, dubbed the “Sword Saint” in training, inspired by the legendary actor Toshiro Mifune’s youthful likeness. The story follows Musashi’s journey to become Japan’s greatest swordsman as he travels the country honing his skills, only to accidentally don the cursed “Demon Gauntlet.” Though resistant to its power at first, he soon realizes removing it is no easy feat, setting him on a quest for liberation.

Powered by CAPCOM’s latest RE Engine technology, the game showcases enhanced visuals and fluid camera work resembling recent Resident Evil titles—but replaces fixed camera angles with a modern third-person, over-the-shoulder perspective that seamlessly blends gameplay with cinematic presentation.

Combat remains rooted in traditional Onimusha-style swordplay but without turning into a punishing “souls-like” experience. The pace is measured and deliberate: players can take a few hits without instant death, yet the flow is smooth and responsive. Every sword block adjusts dynamically depending on the enemy’s strike direction, allowing precise parries that stagger foes or reflect projectiles back at ranged attackers, all without the typical stamina constraints. Instead, a unique “Balance Gauge” governs defensive maneuvers—blocking drains it, but perfectly timed parries do not. Managing this gauge is crucial, especially against bosses, where breaking their gauge enables powerful attacks that heavily damage stamina.

The famous “Issen” move returns, enabling a devastating kill if executed with perfect timing during enemy aggression. When facing crowds, players can chain these strikes into “Issen Combo” sequences for mass takedowns.

Defeated enemies drop collectible “Souls” in different colors that restore health, replenish gauntlet energy, or boost abilities. Players must actively absorb these souls using the gauntlet, though some dangerous enemies, like the “Kubi-Tou” phantom, attempt to snatch them away.

The demo featured an intense duel between Musashi and his famed rival Sasaki Kojiro, also equipped with a demon gauntlet. Successfully parrying allowed players to deplete Kojiro’s balance gauge, leaving him vulnerable to a critical “Kuzushi Issen” strike with strategic target-specific effects—such as breaking his protective hat or forcing him to drop souls. Filling the gauntlet’s energy then unlocked powerful special moves.

The climax showcased a brutal battle against “Hyakui,” a massive phantom forged from toxic miasma and wielding a huge axe. This boss’s strength grows as it absorbs blood, demanding careful timing of parries to exhaust its balance gauge before unleashing devastating counterattacks or executing ultimate finishing moves.

A “Spirit Gauge” builds up when successfully deflecting attacks, granting a temporary empowered state that boosts attack power and increases the chance of soul drops. The gauge can be quickly refilled by chaining well-timed parries, extending this heightened combat mode.

Game Details:

Title: Onimusha Way of the Sword

Genre: Sword-fighting Action

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam

Release: 2026 (exact date TBD)

Languages: English and 13 other languages

Players: Single-player

Rating: TBD

Developer: CAPCOM

Publisher: CAPCOM

Official Website: https://www.capcom-games.com/onimusha/ws/en-us/

Onimusha Way of the Sword promises to deliver a captivating experience steeped in authentic Japanese atmosphere, balanced yet rich sword combat, and cinematic storytelling that honors its storied legacy while introducing fresh mechanics and a modern presentation style. Fans of action games and historical fantasy alike have much to look forward to with this formidable new chapter.

©2025 CAPCOM . All Rights Reserved. CAPCOM and the CAPCOM logo are registered trademarks in the US and/or other countries.

Mobile

TGS 2025 Blew Our Minds: Forza in Japan, a New Yakuza, and Why the Future of Gaming Looks Incredible

Tokyo Game Show 2025 has wrapped, and what a show it’s been! The halls were buzzing with excitement, the cosplayers were out in full force, and we got a thrilling glimpse into the future of gaming. From massive announcements by industry giants to hands-on demos of some of the most anticipated titles, TGS 2025 did not disappoint. Here’s our breakdown of the biggest news and the games that left us hyped.

Japan Takes Center Stage

This year’s TGS had a distinctly Japanese feel, with many developers and publishers paying homage to the host country’s rich culture and history. Microsoft came out swinging with a showcase that put Japan in the spotlight. We got the official reveal of Forza Horizon 6, and it’s taking us to the neon-drenched streets and scenic mountain passes of Japan! The announcement trailer was a jaw-dropping tour of what’s to come, and we can’t wait to get behind the wheel in 2026.

But the Japan-centric announcements didn’t stop there. We got a look at the “Heavenly Spear” expansion for Age of Mythology: Retold, which will introduce Japanese gods and monsters. And for all you FPS fans, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will be dropping players into new multiplayer maps set in Tokyo and the Japanese countryside.

Of course, the other big players brought their A-game as well. Sony’s booth was a PlayStation paradise, with a heavy focus on their upcoming first-party titles and the latest for PSVR2. Capcom gave us a deeper look into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds, while SEGA sent fighting game fans into a frenzy with a teaser for a new Virtua Fighter project. Square Enix and Bandai Namco also had a strong presence, showcasing their upcoming RPGs and announcing Code Vein 2, respectively.

Hands-On with the Most Hyped Games of TGS 2025

While the big announcements were exciting, the real thrill of TGS is getting to go hands-on with the games. We were lucky enough to get some playtime with some of the most talked-about titles on the show floor. Here are our impressions:

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

Get ready for another round of 1-vs-1,000 action in the land of Hyrule! This new installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 6, 2025, is everything you’d expect and more. The gameplay is as chaotic and satisfying as ever, and the new story has us hooked. Slicing through hordes of Moblins with our favorite Zelda characters never gets old.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 / Yakuza 3 Gaiden: Dark Ties

The Dragon of Dojima is back! We got to experience the stunningly remade streets of Okinawa and Tokyo in Yakuza Kiwami 3. The combat feels better than ever, and the added story scenes bring even more depth to this beloved classic. But the real surprise was Dark Ties, a brand-new side story focusing on the enigmatic Yoshitaka Mine. This two-in-one package, releasing on February 12, 2026, is a must-have for any Yakuza fan.

Silent Hill F

Prepare to be terrified all over again. Silent Hill F, the latest entry in the legendary horror series, is a chilling return to form. Set in 1960s Japan, the game’s atmosphere is incredibly unsettling, thanks to the masterful sound design by Akira Yamaoka and a story penned by the renowned Ryukishi07. We only played a short demo, but it was enough to give us nightmares. Silent Hill F is out now, and we highly recommend playing with the lights on.

Ghost of Yotei

As massive fans of Ghost of Tsushima, we had high expectations for its standalone sequel, and Ghost of Yotei did not disappoint. This action-adventure epic, set in the beautiful and brutal landscape of 17th-century Hokkaido, is a visual masterpiece. The new protagonist, Atsu, is a force to be reckoned with, and her quest for revenge is both thrilling and emotional. Mark your calendars for October 2, 2025, because this is one game you won’t want to miss.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles

A true classic returns! This expanded remaster of the beloved strategy RPG is a dream come true for fans. With updated graphics, full voice acting, and some welcome quality-of-life improvements, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is the definitive way to experience this masterpiece. Whether you’re a returning veteran or a newcomer to the world of Ivalice, this is a must-play when it releases on September 30, 2025.

That’s a wrap on our TGS 2025 coverage! The future of gaming is looking bright, and we can’t wait to get our hands on all these amazing titles. Stay tuned for our full reviews and more in-depth coverage in the coming months.

Continue Reading

Multi

Indonesian Adventure Game Kejora Delayed to Avoid Hollow Knight: Silksong Competition

In a surprising move that highlights the indie gaming landscape’s competitive nature, Indonesian developer Berangin Creative and publisher Soft Source have announced that their narrative puzzle adventure game Kejora will be pushed back from its original September 4, 2025 release date to January 8, 2026. The reason? They want to steer clear of Hollow Knight: Silksong’s massive launch impact.

Strategic Repositioning in a Crowded Market

This delay decision showcases the harsh realities facing indie developers in today’s gaming market. With Silksong generating unprecedented hype and occupying the same release window, the team behind Kejora made the tactical choice to find clearer waters for their launch.

“This is a difficult but necessary decision,” the development team explained. “We believe this will provide Kejora with a better platform to debut as it deserves and receive the full attention of players.”

A Game That’s Evolved Through Development

Kejora’s journey to release has been anything but straightforward. Originally announced back in 2021, the project has undergone several transformations, shifting from its initial side-scrolling shooter concept to its current form as a narrative-driven puzzle adventure. Despite these pivots, the game has maintained its core appeal: stunning hand-drawn visuals inspired by Studio Ghibli’s distinctive art style, infused with rich Southeast Asian cultural elements.

Set in a seemingly peaceful village harboring dark secrets, Kejora promises to deliver a story where residents continue their daily routines while mysteries unfold beneath the surface. The game’s hand-crafted animation and art direction have been praised for authentically capturing Southeast Asian aesthetics in ways rarely seen in gaming.

Expanding Platform Reach

The delay brings some silver lining for potential players. When Kejora finally launches, it won’t be limited to just Steam. The game will simultaneously arrive on Epic Games Store, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox Series X|S, significantly broadening its potential audience.

This multi-platform approach reflects the team’s ambition to showcase Southeast Asian storytelling to a global audience across all major gaming ecosystems.

A Testament to Regional Game Development

The developers view Kejora’s evolution as more than just a single game’s journey. “From the 2021 side-scrolling shooter concept to today’s narrative puzzle adventure, Kejora’s growth reflects our passion for Southeast Asian cultural heritage and demonstrates the innovative potential of game developers in the region,” they stated.

The team expressed gratitude to their patient fanbase, acknowledging that community support has motivated them to polish the experience further. For an industry where cultural representation often takes a backseat to broader appeal, Kejora represents an important step in bringing authentic regional storytelling to the global stage.

While the wait just got longer, this strategic delay might ultimately serve both the game and its audience better, allowing Kejora to claim the spotlight it deserves when it launches across all major platforms in early 2026.

©2025 Berangin Creative and Soft Source Pte Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Soft Source and the Kejora logo are registered trademarks in the US and/or other countries.

Continue Reading

Multi

Yakuza Studio RGG Announces Major Digital Showcase for September 24

SEGA’s Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio (RGG) is gearing up for a significant news drop with the announcement of “RGG SUMMIT 2025,” a digital showcase event scheduled for September 24 at 12:00 PM JST (the day before Tokyo Game Show 2025 officially kicks off). The studio promises to deliver major updates on their upcoming projects during this online presentation.

What to Expect from the Showcase

The event will be livestreamed simultaneously across YouTube and Twitch on RGG’s official channels, ensuring fans worldwide can tune in for the latest announcements. Following the main presentation, the studio will host an additional deep-dive stream called “RGG DIRECT 2025.9,” which will provide more detailed coverage of whatever gets revealed during the summit.

RGG has yet to release the specific streaming links, but they’ve confirmed these will be made available closer to the event date.

Spotlight on Stranger Than Heaven

While RGG hasn’t revealed exactly what they’ll be showcasing, all eyes are on their current flagship project: “Stranger Than Heaven.” This action-adventure title represents a departure from the studio’s typical modern-day crime sagas, instead taking players to early 20th century Osaka’s Souten-bori district across multiple time periods.

The game centers around Mako Daito, a protagonist whose story unfolds against the backdrop of a historically turbulent era in Japanese history. This period setting marks an intriguing shift for RGG Studio, known primarily for their contemporary Yakuza series and Judgment spin-offs.

Timing and Expectations

The strategic timing of this announcement—just before one of gaming’s biggest annual events—suggests RGG Studio has something substantial to reveal. Whether that’s new gameplay footage, a release window, or entirely new project announcements remains to be seen.

Given RGG Studio’s track record of delivering compelling narratives set in meticulously recreated Japanese urban environments, anticipation is running high among fans who have been eagerly awaiting more details about their next chapter.

The September 24 showcase promises to be a must-watch event for anyone following the studio’s evolution beyond their signature Yakuza formula into new narrative and historical territories.

©2025 SEGA Corporation. All Rights Reserved. SEGA and the SEGA logo are registered trademarks in the US and/or other countries.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2017-2025 TastesHK, tasteshk.com. All logo, registered trademarks, media and materials belongs to their rightful owners in the US and/or other countries.